WPC ETA Certification: Complete Guide for Wireless Device Approval in India

• WPC ETA Certification is mandatory for all Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, RFID, Zigbee, and RF-based devices sold or imported in India.
• Approval is granted after verifying an accredited RF Test Report to ensure the device operates within permitted frequency bands.
• Businesses must obtain ETA to avoid customs delays, legal issues, and market restrictions.
• The process includes RF testing, documentation, online submission, and WPC review, typically completed within 7–15 working days.
• ETA remains valid unless any hardware or RF changes occur in the product
• Working with Silvereye Certifications ensures faster testing, correct documentation, and smooth WPC approval handling.

Introduction

A few months ago, a Delhi-based importer contacted us because his 2.4 GHz wireless devices were stuck at customs. The shipment had no WPC ETA Certification, and the officers refused clearance until he produced a valid RF Test Report and ETA number.

Situations like this are now common. As wireless products flood the Indian market—Bluetooth speakers, Wi-Fi gadgets, RFID devices, IoT modules—WPC Approval is no longer optional. It is a mandatory compliance requirement under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).

This guide explains every requirement clearly, from RF testing to import licensing, based on years of handling applications at Silvereye Certifications.

What is WPC ETA Certification?

WPC ETA Certification (Equipment Type Approval) is an approval issued by the Wireless Planning & Coordination (WPC) Wing of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India.

It confirms that any wireless or RF-based product—such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, RFID, Zigbee, IoT modules, or any device operating in licence-free frequency bands—meets India’s radio frequency and spectrum compliance rules.

In simple terms:

• It ensures the product uses approved frequency bands (like 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz).
• It verifies that the device does not interfere with licensed telecom or wireless networks.
• It is a mandatory certification before importing, selling, or manufacturing wireless devices in India.

Without WPC ETA Certification, wireless products can be stopped at customs, removed from marketplaces, or deemed non-compliant under Indian telecom regulations.

Role of WPC Under the Department of Telecommunications

The WPC division functions under the DoT and regulates India’s radio spectrum. It oversees:

• Equipment Type Approval
• Licensing for wireless usage
• Import authorization for RF-based devices

Why is ETA Mandatory for Wireless and RF Products?

ETA is mandatory because India strictly regulates how wireless devices use radio frequencies. Every Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, RFID, Zigbee, LoRa, or RF-enabled product must prove that it operates only in approved licence-free frequency bands and does not interfere with critical communication networks.

The key reasons include:

• Spectrum Safety: Ensures the device does not disrupt licensed telecom services, aviation signals, defence communication, or emergency networks.
• Compliance with DoT Regulations: ETA is a legal requirement under the Department of Telecommunications for all RF products entering the Indian market.
• Customs Clearance: Import shipments without ETA certification are held or rejected by Indian customs authorities
• Market Legitimacy: Retailers, e-commerce platforms, and distributors require ETA-approved products to avoid regulatory violations.
• Consumer Safety and Performance: RF-tested products reduce risks of signal leakage, excessive power output, and harmful interference

What is WPC Approval in India?

WPC Approval in India refers to the authorization granted by the Wireless Planning & Coordination (WPC) Wing of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) for wireless and radio-frequency (RF) products. Any device that transmits or receives radio signals—such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, RFID, Zigbee, or IoT modules—must comply with India’s spectrum regulations before it can be imported, sold, or manufactured in the country.

WPC Approval includes two main components:

• ETA (Equipment Type Approval): Required for devices operating in licence-free frequency bands like 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz.
• WPC License (where applicable): Required for high-power or restricted-band wireless equipment used by industries, broadcasters, and telecom operators.
• Form COS-9 – Loan License (Issued when a brand uses a third-party manufacturing unit to produce cosmetics.)
• Who needs it? Private-label manufacturers, contract manufacturers, direct brand-owned factories.
• Validity: 5 years.

WPC Approval ensures that all wireless products:

• Operate only in permitted frequency bands,
• Meet RF safety and emission standards, and
• Do not interfere with India’s licensed communication networks.

In simple terms, WPC Approval is the mandatory regulatory permission that makes wireless devices legal and safe to use in the Indian market.

Difference Between ETA Approval and WPC Licensing

• ETA Certification: For product compliance
• WPC License: For operating high-power or restricted-band equipment. Most commercial Wi-Fi and Bluetooth products need only ETA, not a license

Benefits of WPC ETA Approval

Legal Authorization to Sell RF Products in India

Ensures your wireless device is approved as per Indian frequency and safety regulations.

Smooth Import & Market Entry

ETA is mandatory for customs clearance of Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, RFID, Zigbee, RFID, and other RF-enabled products.

Increased Product Credibility & Trust

Certified products are trusted more by distributors, e-commerce platforms, and customers.

Avoidance of Penalties & Seizure

Prevents legal issues, product confiscation, or delays due to regulatory non-compliance.

Boosts Business Opportunities

Enables brands to list products on platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and supply to government tenders.

Assurance of RF Safety & Quality

Confirms that the device operates within permissible frequency limits, ensuring safe usage.

Faster Market Launch for Future Variants

Once a model is certified, variants with similar RF modules can obtain ETA more smoothly.

Requirements of WPC ETA Certification

Mandatory RF Test Report Requirements

RF testing must be done from an ISO/IEC accredited Radiofrequency Testing Lab. The test report validates frequency output, bandwidth, and power.

Technical Specifications and Frequency Compliance

Products must operate within approved unlicensed bands to qualify for ETA.

Product Sample and Documentation Needs

Manufacturers must submit technical product details, internal photographs, and RF parameters to WPC.

Eligibility Criteria For WPC ETA Certification

Eligibility for Importers and Manufacturers

Any Indian importer, manufacturer, or authorised business entity dealing with wireless or RF-based devices can apply for WPC ETA Certification. The applicant must have valid business documents such as a GST certificate, PAN, and identity proof of the authorised signatory.

Criteria for Brands Using Wireless Modules

If a product uses an RF module (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, RFID) that already has an ETA certificate, the final device may not require separate testing. However, the brand must ensure the module is used without altering its RF characteristics. Any change to antenna, chipset, or PCB may require fresh ETA.

Conditions for Foreign Manufacturers Selling in India

Foreign manufacturers without an Indian office must apply through an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR). The AIR handles submission, documentation, RF test reports, and communication with WPC on behalf of the overseas brand.

What is the RF Test Report and Why is it Important for WPC ETA Approval?

Purpose of RF Testing for Wireless Devices

An RF Test Report is a technical document issued by an accredited laboratory after evaluating how a wireless device performs on radio frequencies. It confirms that the product operates within India’s permitted licence-free bands and meets the limits set for power output, bandwidth, and emissions.

Key Parameters Measured in RF Test Reports

RF testing typically checks:

• Operating frequency range (e.g., 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 865–867 MHz)
• Output power and antenna performance
• Spurious and harmonic emissions
• Modulation characteristics and bandwidth

These parameters help ensure the device does not interfere with licensed communication networks.

How RF Compliance Ensures Safe Spectrum Usage

WPC relies on the RF Test Report to verify that the product is safe for public use and does not cause radio interference. Without a valid RF Test Report, WPC cannot issue ETA Certification, and customs may reject or detain the product. In simple terms, RF testing is the technical foundation that makes WPC ETA Approval possible.

Which Products Require WPC ETA Approval?

Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee and RF-Based Devices

Any device that uses wireless technologies such as Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz), Bluetooth, Zigbee, NFC, or other RF communication must obtain WPC ETA Certification before import or sale in India. This includes routers, access points, speakers, earbuds, smart audio devices, and wireless controllers.

IoT Gadgets and Smart Home Devices

Most IoT and smart home products rely on embedded RF modules. Smart plugs, sensors, wearables, automation devices, security alarms, and home control systems all require ETA approval because they operate in licence-free frequency bands.

Wireless Modules Integrated Inside Electronic Products

RF modules used inside finished goods—such as Wi-Fi modules, Bluetooth chips, LoRa modules, RFID readers, or transceiver boards—must be ETA certified. If these modules are not pre-certified, the final product must undergo RF testing and obtain its own ETA certificate.

WPC ETA Certification Process and Documents

Step-by-Step Online ETA Application Process

• RF Testing of the product or module
• Preparation of documents and test reports
• Online submission on Saral Sanchar portal
• Payment of Government Fees
• Review by WPC officers
• Issuance of ETA certificate

Mandatory Documents Required for ETA Approval

• RF Test Report from an accredited lab (showing device operates within permissible frequency bands)
• Product Technical Datasheet / Specification Sheet
• User Manual of the device/module
• Product Photos (internal & external)
• Authorization Letter from manufacturer (if the applicant is not the manufacturer)
• Company KYC Documents (IEC, GST, PAN, address proof)
• OEM Company Registration Certificate (for foreign manufacturers)
• Board Resolution / Authorization for Signatory
• Self-Declaration Letter (device is compliant with WPC norms & not violating frequency limits)

WPC ETA Certification Validity and Renewal

Validity Period of ETA Certification

WPC ETA Certification does not have a fixed expiry date. Once issued, the certificate remains valid as long as the product’s RF hardware and technical configuration stay unchanged. This includes the antenna, chipset, frequency band, and PCB layout.

Renewal Requirements and Documentation

ETA renewal is not required under normal conditions because the certification is linked to the product's RF characteristics. Manufacturers and importers must keep the original ETA certificate, RF test report, and submission documents as proof of compliance for customs and market regulators.

When Re-Certification is Needed

A fresh ETA application becomes necessary if:

• There is any change in RF module, antenna type, or chipset
• The operating frequency band is modified
• Internal hardware or PCB layout affects wireless performance
• A new variant/model uses a different wireless module

In summary, ETA renewal is only required when the wireless architecture of the product changes, ensuring it continues to comply with India’s spectrum rules.

Why Choose Our Consultancy for WPC ETA Approval

Expert Support in RF Testing and Filing

We guide you through every technical requirement, ensuring RF tests and documents meet WPC standards from the start.

Accurate Documentation and Smooth Coordination

Our team prepares complete, error-free paperwork and coordinates with labs and authorities to prevent delays or queries.

Reliable End-to-End Assistance by Silvereye Certifications

We handle the entire ETA process—from application to approval—making compliance faster, simpler, and hassle-free for your business.

Conclusion

Importance of ETA Certification for Wireless Products

WPC ETA Certification ensures that wireless devices operate safely within India’s permitted frequency bands and comply with DoT regulations. It is essential for any business manufacturing or importing RF-based products.

Ensuring Compliance for Smooth Market Entry

With proper RF testing and complete documentation, ETA approval helps avoid customs delays, market restrictions, and regulatory issues. It supports smooth product launch and distribution in India.

How Professional Support Simplifies the Process

Experienced consultants like Silvereye Certifications streamline the entire approval cycle, from testing and documentation to final certification, making WPC compliance faster and more dependable.